The Watt Studio

The question often arises: what advice would I give my younger self if given the chance? While I initially brush off the inquiry, the truth is, there’s a trove of insights I’d share to illuminate the path of a burgeoning career.

Speed is Good, Acceleration is Bad

In the realm of professional development, I draw a parallel to driving – it’s not the speed that harms, but sudden acceleration and deceleration. For young professionals, the focus should shift from the pace of learning to the consistency of it. Avoid hasty investments in decisions. Consider New Year’s Resolutions – many dive in, investing heavily, only to abandon their pursuits. The key is to start slow, learn consistently, and allow habits to form naturally.

Read every day, even if just a few pages. The key is not the volume but the regularity. The habit of reading will serve as a foundation for continuous learning. Open and use new software daily, even if only for a few minutes. It ensures a steady buildup of skills over time. Dedicate a session a day on language learning platforms like Duolingo. Consistency is key; progress, no matter how small, accumulates over time.

Small Companies Yield More Impact

In the early stages, consider starting your professional journey with small companies. They hunger for talent and offer a wealth of experiences. Prioritize learning over immediate financial gains. Small companies provide a unique environment to learn effective communication, management, leadership, and multitasking across various disciplines during the formative years of your career.

Success is a By-Product of Good Work Ethics

Success, defined not just by monetary gains but professional fulfillment, is intricately tied to work ethics. The journey to success is paved with good choices and steady effort. “Nudge” yourself toward success (Nudge is a reference to the works of behavioral economist Richard H. Thaler). Make intentional and ethical choices in your career. Take your time, don’t compare yourself with people around you, don’t be obsessively competitive, work at your own pace and make sure you make the right choices. Everything else will flow naturally. Success becomes a by-product of consistently making the right decisions.

Do Your Personal Life Justice

Maintaining a harmonious work-life balance is paramount. Your happiness outside of work significantly influences your professional demeanor, and vice versa. Prioritize personal time, doing justice to your family, to project positivity at work.

Alas as I reflect on these insights, I acknowledge the absence of time machines to relay this wisdom to my younger self! I hope these extended thoughts prove beneficial to those embarking on their professional journey.